Amid all the chatter and frivolity, it is easy to forget why you are here, at least until today's special guest arrives. Chester is a big gangly bundle of affectionate puppy who was born with deformed front legs. Thanks to AWLQ supporters, Chester is getting a second chance and will soon be fitted out with a specially designed wheelchair to support his front legs. He is such an adorable fur-kid and will soon be available for adoption.

The Southport Yacht Club's first-floor function room boasts a million-dollar view and hosts the Chicks lunch on the last Wednesday of every month (bookings essential via Rosie or Doreen). A seated, alternate-plate function menu is currently only $26. Last month this included delicious starter dips to share, and followed by either the sirloin steak with creamy mash or a mildly-spiced pork curry and rice.

But the food is only a very small part of the day, as many of these ladies love to dress up and have fun. As you might guess, there was a strong French Moulin Rouge theme for the March lunch. The theme for April is all about dressing up in the style of famous French and Italian fashion labels, so that should be a bit of fun.

After ten successful years, Rosie now has a team of ladies who volunteer their time to organise a regular feast of entertaining outings that raise money for AWLQ. The newsletters provide info about what's happening, and productions at the Spotlight Theatre at Benowa are popular activities.

White Sunnies is a smaller sub-group of Chicks that also meets for lunch once a month, but at different venues across the Gold Coast. Last month their Aries Birthday Party was at the Great Greek Kafe in Southport which cost $30 (incl. 2 courses and a glass of wine). Contact Jacquie for details (07) 5594 6510 or 0407 002 498.

If you can't make it to one of these highly-entertaining lunches, then please donate to AWLQ some other way. Cash donations can be made directly through their website, clothing can be dropped off at their retail shops or the Coombabah animal centre, or they can collect larger items or furniture from you.

GETTING THEREAs the crow flies, Southport Yacht Club is due north of Tedder Avenue in Main Beach. However, if you approach along Tedder you will find yourself in a bit of a pickle and forced to head in the wrong direction back towards the Gold Coast Highway. Here are the best ways to approach by car.

If heading south over the bridge from Southport, turn left at the first set of lights and you will soon see the Club up ahead on your left. If heading north from Surfers Paradise, this is the set of lights after the Tedder Ave turnoff. You can also approach from the beach esplanade (Main Beach Parade) or from Seaworld, but you need to be quick to turn into the parking lot once you get through the roundabout.

Gold Coast visitors and frugal locals might like to catch the 750 bus that runs to the south, between SeaWorld and Mudgeeraba, or the 704 which runs to the north, between SeaWorld and Helensvale. Check the Translink Journey Planner for up-to-date details and timetables.